Dr. Suneil Koliwad, Chief of the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism at UCSF Health, explained that changes in DNA, measured through epigenetic clocks, provide a way to estimate a person's biological age rather than simply their chronological age. These DNA markers change over time and can indicate how quickly the body is aging.

In the study, researchers compared participants who took semaglutide for 32 weeks with those who did not. Across multiple epigenetic aging measures, individuals receiving semaglutide showed a 2- to 7-year reduction in biological aging, suggesting the drug may slow age-related cellular changes.

Addressing concerns about the medication's side effects, Koliwad noted that although GLP-1 therapies can lead to some loss of muscle mass and bone density, the majority of the weight lost is fat rather than lean tissue. He emphasized that resistance training and adequate protein intake remain important to help preserve muscle during treatment.

Koliwad also highlighted that semaglutide's anti-inflammatory effects may be the key reason behind its potential anti-aging benefits. Since chronic inflammation is a major driver of age-related diseases, reducing inflammation could help improve overall health and slow biological aging.

He added that the potential use of GLP-1 therapies is expanding beyond weight loss and diabetes. These medications may also benefit people with metabolic disorders and inflammation-related conditions associated with unhealthy aging. Looking ahead, Koliwad noted that newer GLP-1-based therapies, including recently approved and upcoming drugs, may offer even greater benefits for promoting healthy aging and longevity.

Source: https://www.ktvu.com/news/glp-1-drugs-may-slow-biological-aging-study-finds